It’s true! You really can eat your way to optimum brain power and continue to feed your brain at any age.
The right foods will help you use your brain to the max, and the more
you use it, the more you’ll challenge your brain to grow new cells,
create new connections, and improve your problem-solving and memory
functions.
Before I tell you about the many great foods that will keep your brain performing at its peak, remember — eat organic foods
that are fresh and as close to their natural state as possible. Also,
drink plenty of pure, clean water, which is 85% of your brain’s weight.
Did you know that water can actually increase your alertness? When
you’re feeling sluggish in the afternoon, instead of grabbing a
caffeinated, carbonated drink, pour yourself a tall glass of purified water.
Finally, pick foods your great, great grandparents would have eaten,
and stay away from so-called modern, highly processed foods that are
filled with nasty chemicals. Many foods today are genetically modified. So, they are not as nutritious as organic, natural foods. And even worse, they can be dangerous to your health.
Foods that Boost Your Brain Power
Research suggests that diets rich in berries reduce, or even reverse, declining brain function.
Blueberries, in particular, have been shown to have the ability to
improve memory and keep your brain “young.” They can also help you
improve your balance and coordination.
Berries are rich in antioxidants
which protect your brain cells from oxidation and free radical damage.
This means antioxidants may slow down brain aging and prevent disease,
while promoting the growth of healthy brain cells. Berries are also some
of the most colorful foods you can eat!
List of Healthiest Berries:
- Blueberries
- Blackberries
- Red Grapes
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- Strawberries
- Raspberries
- Cranberries
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Then
there’s the South American Acai Berry which has more antioxidants than
any other berry. Plus, it contains Omega Fatty Acids and is high in
protein (I’ll tell you more about Omega Fatty Acids below).
Stick to bright colors when choosing other fruits and vegetables,
too. Yellow, orange, and green vegetables are rich in beta-carotene, a
powerful antioxidant that converts to vitamin A in your body. Dark leafy
green vegetables and citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C.
Both vitamins are linked to improving your memory and reasoning powers and keeping your arteries functioning properly.
Foods High in Beta-Carotene & Vitamin C:
- Mangos
- Oranges
- Carrots
- Broccoli
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- Tomatoes
- Cantaloupe
- Rainbow chard
- Green, Red & Yellow Peppers
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Vegetables and fruits also contain natural sugars that keep you alert. Your brain needs natural sugars to function at its best.
Avocados
are rich in good fat and vitamin E, while whole and sprouted grains are
rich in fiber. Both are good for your circulatory system. And what’s
good for your blood flow, is great for your brain.
The Importance of Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids are also necessary for maximum brain power, as
well as promoting normal brain growth and development. They also have
anti-inflammatory properties that help:
- Prevent strokes
- Improve blood circulation
- Lift mood and prevent depression
Studies show that eating foods that are high in Omega Fatty Acids can
reduce the risk of Alzheimer disease, too. These fatty acids also help
boost memory and your ability to learn new things!
Other sources of good Omega fatty Acids are marine plants, such as blue-green algae, and nut or seed oils.
All nuts, particularly walnuts, “feed your brain” because they keep
your arteries clear and boost serotonin levels. Serotonin is a
neurotransmitter that controls sleep, depression, memory, and other
neurological processes. Raw unprocessed Organic Olive oil, Coconut Oil
and hempseed oil also contain brain healthy fats, fibers, and proteins. I
recommend 1-2 tablespoons daily.
- Okra
- Spinach
- Lentils
- Collards
- Asparagus
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- Black Beans
- Garbanzo Beans
- Romaine Lettuce
- Black-Eyed Peas
- Sunflower Seeds
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Did you know that flaxseed, and real organic chocolate are brain food, too! They’re filled with vitamin E which keeps your brain healthy later in life. Real chocolate also releases dopamine, to enhance cognition and mood.
Be sure to eat chocolate that is minimally processed and retains the
most pure cacao bean. That means either 100% organic cocoa powder or a
dark chocolate bar with at least 75% cacao content. You’ll need to be
careful of the chocolate you buy because some chocolate manufacturers
use unhealthy and unethical practices.
Vitamins & Herbs that Boost Your Brain Power
These vitamins and minerals help your memory and reasoning powers while slowing down the signs of aging.
Some researchers suggest that the herbs ginseng and gingko have a positive impact on your brain, keeping you alert and improving memory.
Did you know? Body cleansing
can help boost your brain power, too. By eliminating the toxic
chemicals and heavy metals that build up in your body from your
environment and diet, you can rid your brain of dangerous free radicals
that may contribute to disease and poor health.
Eating the proper foods enhances your brain functions. And, using
your brain for reading and learning new skills, such as a musical
instrument, a new language, or computer skills — even conquering
crossword puzzles regularly will keep your brain quick and nimble.
Note: Processed foods are often too starchy, fatty,
and sugary and will do more harm than good for your body and brain. You
want raw, organic fruit and vegetables as often as possible. Live foods
present your body with beneficial energy as well as their natural
nutrients.
I also recommend getting a cellphone protector for your phone to reduce any harmful radiation leaking into your brain tissue
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